Brasil - Race Engineers Notes Part 2

FP2 Analysis

 Sector 1

In order of final FP2 position, I have created a graph showing each of the top ten drivers’ Sector 1 times.

Before I go on to analyse, I will quickly mention my earlier prediction of what would happen during Sector 1:

·                             Williams would be the closest match to the Mercedes’ - Due to: good medium speed aerodynamics and for having the same PU for the end of S1 straight.         

Whilst Rosberg finished fastest with Hamilton right behind, Massa gave both Mercedes drivers a run for their money as he pushed hard through S1. Less than half a tenth split him from Hamilton which is an impressive fact. Williams’ average S1 time is 2^nd best in the field, highlighting the FW-36’s delicate balance between aerodynamics and mechanical set up.

Ferrari came close to matching Red Bull on average which is surprising considering how inefficient their aerodynamics are.
As this sector demands both mechanical and aero capabilities, I would’ve thought that Ferrari could make up for their aero deficit through S1, but it was not the case.

Kvyat had another magnificent Sector as he continues to demonstrate why he got next year’s RB seat. Fourth fastest, ahead of Ferrari, Red Bull and McLaren, is something special. Again, this proves that the Toro Rosso has a good balance between mechanical and aero set up.

Sector 2 

The data above can be used to show the teams’ aerodynamic efficiencies. If you’re quick through here then it help show how good your medium speed aero is.
On average, Ferrari are second quickest which shows how much better their medium speed aero is compared to their usual high speed aero. It could be that Ferrari are running more downforce to help increase laptime whilst compromising their S1 and S3.

In stark comparison to S1, Massa becomes second slowest in S2. Massa has never taken a liking to tight twisty circuits (like Monaco), and Interlagos’ S2 replicates a street circuit quite well. It would be inaccurate to say that the Williams struggles here because Bottas goes over 1.5 tenths faster than his team-mate.  

Sector 3

Pace through S3 is pretty much completely dependent upon straight line capabilities - that is max velocity and acceleration.

Massa once again pulled out the home advantage, even beating Hamilton, and doing it quite comfortably. The Williams is quick, their theoretical best lap time could easily challenge for the front row in Qualifying.

Ferrari don’t seem to have been punished at all by their good speed through S2. The F14-T suits Interlagos quite nicely.

Ricciardo and Vettel continue to struggle with their Renault PU. The pit straight will be very detrimental to them in the race.

Qualifying

Qualifying in Brasil will be very tricky this weekend. The field is incredibly competitive at the top between Ferrari, Mercedes and Williams. The weather will also play a significant role in determining the grid as teams like Williams will struggle with low grip conditions.

Car set up will be crucial because if it is dry in qualifying, teams may have to compromise set up so that they will remain competitive in a wet race on Sunday Quali in Sao Paulo will be a thrilling event that will be very intriguing to analyse.

Thanks for reading!

Ali